A New Golfer’s Perspective: Comparing the U.S. Open in Pinehurst to the Inaugural Myrtle Beach Classic

By Rob Spallone

As a relative newcomer to golf, stepping into this world over the past few years has been an incredible experience. One thing I hadn’t done until recently, however, is attend a PGA TOUR event. But this year, I had the unique opportunity to attend two remarkable events: the prestigious U.S. Open at Pinehurst, and the inaugural Myrtle Beach Classic. Each experience offered a thrilling immersion into the world of professional golf, yet each had its own distinct flavor. Here’s a new golfer’s take on how I’d compare these two fascinating tournaments.

Pinehurst, with its storied past and iconic status, exuded an aura of grandeur and tradition. Walking onto this property, I felt the weight of the history. The meticulously maintained greens and storied fairways of No. 2 have hosted the greatest legends of the game, and the atmosphere was absolutely electric. The crowd was a blend of seasoned golf aficionados and enthusiastic newcomers like myself. The large-scale event also featured various amenities, including huge merchandise tents, gourmet food stations, and interactive fan zones.

However, working our way through the massive crowds was a bit overwhelming at times.  There aren’t as many lodging options in the surrounding area as compared to the Myrtle Beach area, but there were still a great deal of rental homes within a short driving distance.

The U.S. Open represents the pinnacle of professional golf, drawing the best players from around the globe. Watching the top-ranked golfers like Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler navigate this challenging layout was awe-inspiring; the level of skill, precision, and mental fortitude on display was nothing short of spectacular.

In contrast, the inaugural Myrtle Beach Classic had the charm of a fresh start. The excitement of being part of a brand-new event was contagious. Myrtle Beach, “The Golf Capital of the World,” provided a stunning backdrop with picturesque coastline along The Dunes Golf & Beach Club. The atmosphere was more relaxed, yet still filled with anticipation and excitement.

The Myrtle Beach Classic showcased a terrific mix of both rising stars and seasoned pros. From my perspective, this sort of environment allowed for more interaction with the players, which offered an exciting experience for a new golfer like me. It was inspiring to see emerging talent make its mark, and even break records.

The sense of community at the Myrtle Beach Classic was remarkable and undeniable. This event felt more intimate, with easier access to viewing spots and shorter lines for amenities. The local hospitality was evident in every interaction, making the entire experience warm and welcoming. Myrtle Beach’s huge array of local attractions, restaurants and hotels within such a close vicinity also added to the overall enjoyment of the event for most people with whom I spoke.

Both the U.S. Open at Pinehurst and the Myrtle Beach Classic offered unforgettable experiences, each unique in its own right. The U.S. Open was a masterclass in tradition, elite competition, and historical significance. The Myrtle Beach Classic brought a refreshing sense of novelty and community spirit. It just felt more accessible and relaxed, perfect for a new golfer looking to soak in the professional golf scene without the overwhelming scale of a major tournament. The emerging talent and local charm truly made it an event to remember.

I enjoyed attending both of these events tremendously, and I look forward to attending many more tournaments in the years to come!